Founded in 2003 by five visionary women, COPE-U is a National NGO committed to empowering women, girls, and youth across Uganda. Inspired by personal experiences of inequality, our founders envisioned a society where everyone has equal opportunities to achieve their potential.
YEARS OF EMPOWERMENT
A holistically empowered generation of women, girls, and youth capable of articulating and demanding their rights.
To educate and empower Women/Girls and youth to develop the knowledge and capability to demand for their rights, and offer solution to their own life challenges.
We address the root causes of inequality by creating awareness, fostering dignity, and building capabilities. Through strategic partnerships and resource mobilization, we enable women and girls to lead the charge in their empowerment journey.
At COPE-U, our dedicated team is the backbone of our mission to empower women, girls, and youth across Uganda. From passionate field officers to visionary leaders, each member brings unique skills, commitment, and expertise to drive meaningful change in our communities.
Ms. Petua Babirye Isabirye, Executive Director of COPE-U, is an educationalist with over 20 years of experience in programming, implementing, and managing education programs. She holds a Master’s in Education with a focus on Gender and Social Justice (University of York) and other qualifications in education and safeguarding. Petua is passionate about empowering vulnerable groups to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential.
Valentine brings 25 years of experience in internal and external auditing, specializing in financial statements, donor-funded projects, and consultancy. With over 10 years as an Audit Senior, he has worked on various private sector and donor projects in Uganda. Proficient in accounting software like QuickBooks and Tally, he holds a Higher Diploma in Business Studies, a BSc in Accounting, and is an ACCA finalist.
Mr. Deogratius Kiryowa, an Economist with a Master’s in Economic Policy, specializes in Monitoring and Evaluation, gender equity, and policy analysis. He has vast experience in youth and women inclusion, empowerment, and system strengthening.
Ms. Nakintu Marilyn, a Business Administration graduate from Makerere Business School, is a Finance Manager at COPE-U. Passionate about finance and youth empowerment, she applies her skills to promote self-reliance and has trained in savings, credit, and leadership.
Valerie Kerin Nalubowa, Head of Programs at COPE-U, is a gender activist and Quantity Surveyor passionate about empowering girls and youth. She works to create inclusive, supportive environments for marginalized individuals to thrive, driving COPE-U’s initiatives with determination and enthusiasm.
Ms. Bonita , COPE-U’s Director of Communications, is a Marketing graduate passionate about empowering women, girls, and youth. She advocates for equal opportunities and breaking societal norms limiting girls’ potential.
Juliet, a passionate gender equality activist, has 14+ years of experience in program planning and management. She has led impactful projects recognized globally and has positively influenced many girls and women through her roles as a teacher, researcher, and program coordinator. She now aims to extend this impact at COPE-U.
